News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 18, 2005

Statement of Timothy J. Landrum, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Phoenix Field Division, regarding the seizure of a large marijuana grow operation in the Coconino National Forest

AUG 18 -- Good Morning. This investigation shows the extent that violent Drug Organizations will go to further their illicit activities within the United States. While we all are aware that the state of Arizona has a significant Mexican marijuana importation issue, obviously, this seizure shows the propensity of these organizations to bring their activities to our backyard. Domestic marijuana production continues to be problematic throughout the United States.

The DEA, through our Domestic Cannabis Eradication/SuppressionProgram (DCE/SP), is committed to working with other State and Local enforcement authorities to rid our country of cannabis operations such as this one. Through this program, DEA provides resources to the 102 state and local law enforcement agencies, including Gila County and the Arizona Department of Public Safety. This program includes funding, technology, training and manpower.

Together with our law enforcement partners, we have shut down this major marijuana enterprise and denied these traffickers from generating a potential profit of millions of dollars - striking them at the heart of the drug trade—money. For the many communities who would have been offered this addictive drug, the impact of this operation is enormous.

The DEA continues to address all issues related to both the importation and domestic cultivation and trafficking of marijuana. We also remain resolved to sharing resources and expertise with our federal, state and local partners as evidenced by the cooperative nature of this massive operation.

For further information on the Domestic Cannabis Eradication/ Suppression Program (DCE/SP) and/or the dangers of Marijuana, fact sheets are available in the Press Kit. You may also visit our website at www.dea.gov or contact Public Information Officer Ramona Sanchez.

Thank you.